Bacchus

BACCHUS, a family-owned Greek taverna in Hampstead, offers the diner that wonderful friendly atmosphere that has you believing you are on a small Greek island.

And with Tula still running the restaurant after 30 years, the diner can be assured of truly authentic meal, using only first-class ingredients.

The new menu provides plenty of choice, starting with the traditional dips and breads, wonderful lightly grilled halloumi cheese, mains to make your mouth water and plenty of options for vegetarians.

The recent introduction of yet more traditional dishes has met with the approval of patrons, especially the bulgar pilaff - cracked wheat cooked in a light tomato sauce, served with tzatziki or the gemista - and seasonal vegetables stuffed with rice, raisins, herbs and tomatoes, served with salad and potatoes.

Wonderful food - and not just for vegetarians.

Added to an already wide and varied choice are favourites such as the souzoukakia, minced lamb shaped into sausages with cumin, garlic, onion and parsley, cooked in a tomato sauce and served with rice.

There is also the chef's chicken - panfried chicken thighs in a cream and mushroom sauce, served with rice, or the mousakka, a perennial favourite of freshly sliced aubergines and potatoes layered with béchamel sauce.

There is a great range of meat from the wood-fired grill, including land, pork of chicken kebabs, and lovely fresh fish, from kalamari to sardines and seabass.

In fact, there is something to suit every taste, even the fussiest of eaters.

Bacchus also has an impressive bar, where you will find some traditional amid an impressive wine list.

The service you receive at Bacchus is attentive yet unobtrusive, allowing you to enjoy your beautifully prepared and tasty traditional Greek cuisine in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

The 30 years that Tula has been in Hampstead shows in every aspect of the taverna.

Just a pity Hampstead has no beach.

Signature dishes:

• Mezze, which includes dips, grilled fish, meat and salad £20
• Moussakka, vegeterian or meat £9.50
• Kleftiko - tender lamb on the bone with rice salad and roast potatoes £11
• Tavas - lamb casserole with tomato sauce £10
• Baklava £3.50

Opening Times:
Lunch: Thursday-Saturday:
11.30am-2.30pm
Dinner: Monday-Saturday:
5.30pm-11.30pm
Sunday: Noon-10.00pm